Leadless pacemaker implantation for pediatric patients through internal jugular vein approach: A case series of under 30 kg.

BACKGROUND: We demonstrate a case series of 8 pediatric patients, all under 30 kg, who had leadless pacemaker implants via the internal jugular vein.

METHODS: A retrospective review of pediatric leadless pacing placement via the internal jugular vein at the University of Minnesota Masonic Children's Hospital and UC Davis Medical Center from 2018 through 2021 was performed. Rationales for pacing, demographics of patients, pacing thresholds, and longevity of devices were recorded.

RESULTS: Eight internal jugular pacemaker insertions were performed successfully in patients weighing between 10.9 kg and 29 kg. Five patients had Micra implantation via the right internal jugular vein, whereas 3 patients had insertion via the left internal jugular vein. No surgical cut-downs were performed. No venous complications occurred. Up to 3 years of follow-up were noted.

CONCLUSION: Leadless pacemaker implantation, via left or right internal jugular veins, is feasible without surgical cutdown in patients <30 kg.